HUNDREDS DEFIED Ireland’s COVID-19 restrictions to gather in the centre of Dublin this past Saturday.
Video footage and images shared on social media show large crowds congregating around the Temple Bar area of the Irish capital.
Those in attendance were in high spirits with groups gathering together to enjoy takeaway pints in an area of the city famed for its nightlife.
Plastic cups containing a selection of beers, stouts and selected spirits are all visible in the footage shared on platforms like Twitter.
While those present appeared to be wholeheartedly enjoying themselves, their behaviour contravened the coronavirus restrictions implemented by the Irish government.
In any case, gardai arrived on the scene later that night and dispersed the gathering with no issues.
A Garda spokesman confirmed:"Gardai attended the Temple Bar area this evening, Saturday 22 May 2021.
"A number of persons were gathered in the area.
"Gardai engaged with those present and the crowd dispersed.
"Three males, all aged in their 20s, were arrested for public order offences."
Lads what am I missing?
Current scenes in temple bar, street party?
I do be around this area a lot and never seen it like this. pic.twitter.com/kDaAtlJlDv— The Angry Bartender Ire (@TheAngryBarten3) May 22, 2021
The gathering comes at a pivotal time in the easing of restrictions too amid concerns over the potential spread of the Indian variant in Ireland.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has already urged caution.
While both the Pfizer and AstraZenca vaccines have been found to be effective at combating the strain, a large proportion of the Irish public remain unvaccinated.
See More: Coronavirus, Covid-19, Dublin, Temple Bar
